Cliquez ici pour lire cet article en français
Below are some guidelines to maximize your gas mileage:
Drive Efficiently
- Reduce idling – idling for more than 10 seconds uses more fuel than it takes to restart your engine.
- Avoid speeding – decreasing your highway speed from 120km/h to 100km/h can reduce fuel consumption by 20%.
- Plan Ahead – when traveling long distance, make sure to use the latest road maps available to plan your route.
- Remove extra weight – unnecessary weight reduces mileage especially when driving up inclines.
- Consider car and van pools – you will save money and decrease the wear and tear on your vehicle.
- Plan trips carefully – combine errands and avoid peak travel periods whenever possible.
- Tighten your gas cap – after pumping gasoline make sure to tighten your gas cap. This will avoid gas from evaporating.
Maintain Your Vehicle
- Get regular tune ups – a poorly maintained vehicle can increase your fuel consumption by 15%.
- Keep your tires properly inflated – having under inflated tires wastes fuel and wears out the tire tread.
- Check air filter – a clean air filter is key to good fuel economy.
- Consult owner’s manual – become familiar with your vehicle’s maintenance schedule and requirements.
Sources:
http://www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca/transportation/personal/driving/autosmart-maintenance.cfm?attr=8#planahead
http://www.greenlivingonline.com/GettingAround/save-fuel/
http://www.mda.state.md.us/weights_measures/consumer_tips.php